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  • How a Japanese Toilet Helped the Dodgers Land Roki Sasaki?

    How a Japanese Toilet Helped the Dodgers Land Roki Sasaki?

    When it comes to signing top talent, every little detail matters. For the Los Angeles Dodgers, accommodating one of Rōki Sasaki’s unique requests, installing Japanese-style toilets in the clubhouse, turned out to be more than just a fun fact; it was a deal maker.

    The Meeting That Made All the Difference

    During an early meeting between Rōki Sasaki and Dodgers officials, including team president and CEO Stan Kasten, the conversation took an interesting turn. As Kasten was enthusiastically explaining the $100 million renovation project to upgrade the clubhouse and facilities, he ran down the list of new amenities: new locker rooms, state of the art training equipment, luxurious lounges and more.

    “And then,” Kasten told the OC Register , “Roki asked, ‘Are you going to have Japanese-style toilets?’”

    For those who don’t know, Japanese toilets are famous for their heated seats, bidet functions, automatic lids and even remote controls. They’re a far cry from your standard bathroom setup but they’re also deeply ingrained in Japanese culture and daily life.

    Kasten didn’t hesitate. “Done. You got it,” he said.

    Sasaki later admitted the request was a little tongue in cheek but the gesture meant a lot to him. It wasn’t so much about the toilets themselves as it was about the Dodgers being open to listening and adapting.

    “It was definitely a factor in my decision,” Sasaki said. “I liked that they were willing to hear me out.”

    A Small Change, A Big Impact

    The Dodgers did indeed put in Japanese toilets in the newly renovated clubhouse. A small but big deal. This is a philosophy they’ve been doing for years to make players feel at home, and it’s part of the reason they attract international talent.

    Sasaki signed with the Dodgers in January and chose them over the San Diego Padres and Toronto Blue Jays. He got a $6.5 million signing bonus to start his Major League journey.

    Sasaki’s First Season So Far

    In his rookie season, Rōki Sasaki has shown flashes of brilliance on the mound for the Dodgers. Through six starts, he has a 3.55 ERA, 20 K’s in 25⅓ IP and a 1.421 WHIP. His recent start against the Pirates was promising.

    April 26, 2025: Sasaki went 3 IP, 5 H, 3 ER, 4 K in an 8-4 win. These are the moments we’ve been waiting for from the Dodgers’ rotation.

    Why the Dodgers Went Above and Beyond?

    The Japanese toilets might seem like a small thing to some but it’s a bigger point about player recruitment. In today’s MLB, teams are always looking for ways to stand out when courting free agents or international stars. For Sasaki, the Dodgers going above and beyond showed they valued him as a person not just a player.

    Stan Kasten summed it up: “It was a good idea that we got from a player. And if it helps us get Roki, why not?”

  • Dodgers Worst Ranking of the Season Raises Red Flags

    Dodgers Worst Ranking of the Season Raises Red Flags

    The Los Angeles Dodgers, one of the most historic franchises in baseball and last year’s World Series champs, are in a weird spot. After getting swept by the Chicago Cubs, they’re playing their worst ball of the season and are ranked 4th in Newsweek Sports’ latest power rankings—far from where they expected to be.

    For a team that entered the year with championship aspirations, this is getting serious.

    What Went Wrong Against the Cubs?

    The Dodgers’ trip to Wrigley Field was a disaster. They lost 7-6 on Wednesday night and it was a microcosm of their problems lately.

    One of the biggest issues is the offense. Even stars like Shohei Ohtani who have made careers out of defying expectations are struggling to produce. In his last 21 at-bats Ohtani has 3 hits and is now at .261 on the season. His bat is lost and it was evident in his 6th inning at-bat against the Cubs.

    With runners on 2nd and 3rd and 2 outs, all eyes were on on Ohtani to deliver. Instead, he chased a fastball up and in—an uncharacteristic move for someone who has made a career out of clutch hitting. The result? A swing and miss and the Dodgers were done.

    Manager Dave Roberts didn’t mince words about Ohtani’s approach during this stretch.

    “He had a fastball to hit and just got too big with the swing,” Roberts said via The Orange County Register. “All you need is a base hit right there. I think a little bit this series and even that last game in Texas when he came back there was a little over-aggressiveness.”

    Roberts noted that while Ohtani has shown flashes of patience (drawing walks) he’s also chasing pitches that lead to quick outs instead of letting the pitcher work into mistakes.

    Dodgers’ Hitting Slump is a Problem

    It’s not just Ohtani; the whole lineup is sputtering. The Dodgers’ offense that carried them most of last season has gone cold. Quality at-bats are a rarity, and timely hitting feels like a myth. This slump couldn’t come at a worse time with tougher games ahead.

    Defense and pitching are still strengths for the Dodgers but they can only carry the team so far without run support. For a team that’s used to dominating, this is new territory and it’s showing in the standings.

    Can the Dodgers Turn It Around?

    Despite all this, the Dodgers have a ton of talent. When healthy and clicking on all cylinders, they can beat any team in baseball. But execution is key, and right now, execution is missing.

    If there’s a silver lining it’s that we’re still early in the season. There’s time for adjustments individually and collectively. Ohtani will need to recalibrate his approach and focus less on trying to do too much and more on making contact.

    And manager Dave Roberts needs to find a way to get the spark back in this team. Whether that’s shuffling the lineup or tweaking the strategy something needs to change and fast.

  • Dodgers Insider Shares Latest Update on LA Legend After Health Scare

    Dodgers Insider Shares Latest Update on LA Legend After Health Scare

    The Dodgers family is coming together to support one of its own, Manny Mota, after the legend suffered a stroke earlier this month. While the news sent shockwaves through the baseball world, recent updates have brought relief and hope.

    Manny Mota’s Stroke

    The night of the incident the Dodgers put out a statement on social media.

    “Last night, Dodger legend Manny Mota had a stroke. He is in recovery and is responsive and resting comfortably,” the team said.

    Mota is 87 and has been a part of the Dodgers organization for over 50 years as a player, coach and broadcaster. His contributions to the franchise are immeasurable so this is scary for fans and colleagues.

    Good News in Recovery

    Thankfully José Mota, Manny’s son and former MLB player and broadcaster, gave an update.

    “Dad never lost consciousness during the incident and is doing well,” José Mota told ESPN Deportes. “At his age it’s hard to predict but we hope he can recover all his functions.”

    These are good signs that Mota is responding to treatment and is alert despite his age. The Dodgers medical team and his family are optimistic but cautious about the road ahead.

    A Legacy That Spans Decades

    Manny Mota’s impact on the Dodgers and baseball can’t be measured. Over a 20 year career he was one of the best hitters in the game with a .304 lifetime batting average. In 1973 he was an All-Star with the Dodgers and solidified his status as one of the all time greats.

    After his playing career he transitioned into coaching and broadcasting roles within the organization. He was part of the coaching staff during the 1988 World Series championship season and retired as a coach in 2013 to focus on broadcasting full-time.

    Through it all Mota has been a constant, the embodiment of Dodger Blue.

    The Dodgers Community Unites for Mota

    The support for Mota has been amazing. Everyone is sending him well wishes and prayers from current players to old timers. Social media is filled with messages celebrating his career and wishing him strength.

    For many, Mota is more than just a baseball legend—he’s a symbol of grit, loyalty and dedication. His journey from the Dominican Republic to Dodgers legend is an inspiration to generations of fans.

    What’s Next for Manny Mota?

    The recovery will take time, especially at his age, but the early signs are good. He’s responsive and following commands which is a trait that has defined him his whole life and career.

    As the Dodgers get ready to start another season they do so with heavy hearts but with renewed purpose. Mota’s presence reminds them of what it means to be part of something bigger than themselves.

  • Dodgers’ Star Shohei Ohtani Stumbles Again; Cubs Capitalize for Sweep

    Dodgers’ Star Shohei Ohtani Stumbles Again; Cubs Capitalize for Sweep

    The Dodgers went into Wednesday night’s game against the Chicago Cubs looking to win the series and get out of their early season funk. Instead they left Wrigley Field on the wrong end of a 7-6 loss, and got swept by the Cubs. And at the center of it all was Shohei Ohtani, whose struggles defined another frustrating loss.

    Ohtani’s Big Moment: A Missed Opportunity

    With the Dodgers down one in the 6th, runners at 2nd and 3rd, 2 outs, Ohtani came up with a chance to flip the script. With first base open the Cubs didn’t issue an intentional walk, leaving lefty Matthew Boyd to face Ohtani for the 4th time that night.

    What followed was Ohtani in a nutshell. After working a 2-0 count he chased a fastball up and in and popped out softly to short. The rally died and with it went the Dodgers best chance to take the lead.

    Manager Dave Roberts summed it up:

    “Just got too big with the swing. Where all you need is a base hit right there.”

    A Slump That’s Hard to Ignore

    Ohtani’s struggles have been building for a few weeks now but are impossible to ignore. Since coming off the paternity list last weekend he’s gone 1-10 and his season average has dropped to .261 – below the .310 he hit last year. Over his last 14 games he’s hit .224.

    “He’s human,” Mookie Betts said when asked about Ohtani. “I think we’re all so used to him never doing anything bad.”

    While Betts is optimistic, pointing out Ohtani could get hot at any moment, the reality is the Dodgers can’t wait much longer for their superstar to get going. For most of his time here Ohtani has been the one who bails them out during tough stretches. Now his struggles are adding to the problems plaguing the rest of the roster.

    Dodgers’ Woes Go Beyond Ohtani

    It’s not just Ohtani who’s struggling. Freddie Freeman and Mookie Betts, two of the top of the order, are hitting .250 and the bottom of the order is still a mess. The bullpen, once a strength, is showing cracks and blowing leads in back to back games. And the little things – like Austin Barnes getting picked off at first or Andy Pages throwing to the wrong base – are adding up.

    “We have some things to clean up,” Roberts said after the game. “We gave them extra outs.”

  • Dodgers Add Eddie Rosario as Shohei Ohtani Goes on Paternity List

    Dodgers Add Eddie Rosario as Shohei Ohtani Goes on Paternity List

    The Los Angeles Dodgers are making some key roster moves to address the temporary absence of designated hitter Shohei Ohtani. As first reported by Fabian Ardaya of The Athletic , outfielder Eddie Rosario will join the active roster after signing a minor league deal with the club in the offseason.

    Bill Plunkett of the Orange County Register added that right-hander Edgardo Henriquez will be moved to the 60-day injured list to create a 40-man roster spot for Rosario.

    While the Dodgers have not officially announced these moves, here’s what we know about the situation and how it impacts the team.

    Eddie Rosario Steps Up Amid Ohtani’s Leave

    Shohei Ohtani is going on the paternity list to be with his new child, and the Dodgers have an open roster spot. Enter Eddie Rosario, who has been raking in the PCL. The 33 year old outfielder is hitting .339/.406/.542 in 14 games at Triple-A Oklahoma City. He’s showing he can hit for average and power.

    The PCL caveats apply, but his 11.6% walk rate and 2 HRs suggest he’s not just getting lucky. Rosario is known for being streaky, so he could be the spark while Ohtani is away.

    His career has been a rollercoaster of hot and cold stretches. From 2017-2020, he was a consistent contributor with a .281/.317/.493 line and 112 wRC+. But 2021 was a disaster, and 2022 was a rebound during the Atlanta World Series run, where he was NLCS MVP. Last year, he was terrible, hitting .175/.215/.316 with a 45 wRC+.

    The Dodgers are hoping to catch him at the right time, and so far, his Triple-A numbers say they might have.

    What This Means for the Dodgers’ Roster

    Paternity list stints usually last 1-3 games, so Rosario’s stay on the active roster may be short. If he keeps hitting, though, the Dodgers might keep him around longer. That would mean someone else would have to go. Currently, Andy Pages is the only position player eligible to be optioned, but he’s been playing regular OF. Chris Taylor and Enrique Hernández are veterans who can play multiple positions, so that could be a factor in the decision making process. Rosario is limited to the OF corners, so he’s less versatile than other bench options.

    Edgardo Henriquez to 60-Day IL

    To make room on the 40-man roster for Rosario, the Dodgers are putting right-hander Edgardo Henriquez on the 60-day IL. Henriquez suffered a left foot fracture in early March under mysterious circumstances. Manager Dave Roberts called it an off-field “mishap,” leaving us with more questions than answers.

    Henriquez’s timeline is still unknown, but this move means he won’t be back in the bigs until at least mid-May. Losing a young pitcher is never ideal, but the Dodgers probably view this as a necessary move to help the current roster.

  • Why Honoring Jackie Robinson Means More Than Wearing #42

    Why Honoring Jackie Robinson Means More Than Wearing #42

    Every April 15, Major League Baseball and the Los Angeles Dodgers celebrate Jackie Robinson Day, the man who broke the color barrier in 1947. Players wear No. 42 jerseys, patches on caps, videos in ballparks, and stories about Robinson everywhere. But these gestures mean nothing when placed against the backdrop of actions – or inactions – that go against what Robinson stood for.

    The Celebration vs. The Reality

    The Dodgers joined the Colorado Rockies at the Jackie Robinson statue at Dodger Stadium to talk about his life and legacy. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar even got emotional about Robinson’s lasting impact. But just days before, the Dodgers went to the White House to celebrate their 2024 World Series win with President Donald Trump – an administration that tried to remove Robinson’s military service from the Department of Justice website as part of their overall attack on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives.

    When public pressure forced the DOJ to restore Robinson’s story, neither the Dodgers nor MLB condemned the erasure. And books about racism in sports were removed from Naval Academy libraries, including books about Robinson and other Black athletes.

    As Abdul-Jabbar said in his speech, “You can’t honor the legacy of Jackie Robinson while erasing what he stood for.” Symbolic celebrations are hollow when there’s silence in the face of DEI attacks.

    Dodgers’ Hypocrisy Under Microscope

    When asked if celebrating Robinson while at the White House was hypocritical, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said, “I don’t see it as talking out of both sides of our mouth.” He talked about unity and tradition, saying it wasn’t political but rather a long-standing practice.

    But that ignores context. Previous presidents hosting championship teams never tried to undermine the legacies of those teams’ most iconic figures. This administration is actively attacking the values Robinson fought for—diversity, equity, inclusion—making the Dodgers’ decision far more complicated than just protocol.

    Roberts said, “This isn’t a one-day situation. It’s Jackie Robinson’s day, breaking the color barrier, but this is an everyday mindset and appreciation.” If that’s true, then why hasn’t the organization supported Robinson’s principles beyond the annual tribute?

    Treinen’s Precedent and Mixed Messages

    In 2021, Blake Treinen opted out of a White House visit during Joe Biden’s presidency, citing personal beliefs. His choice was respected, yet no such exemption appeared available this time around. Mookie Betts and Roberts themselves had previously vowed not to attend events hosted by Trump during his first term, given the heightened awareness of racial injustice at the time. But now, amid shifting societal priorities, they prioritized team unity over individual convictions.

    While it’s understandable to avoid distractions, their presence at the White House raises questions about the Dodgers’ commitment to social justice. Are they truly aligned with the causes championed by the Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation (LADF), which focuses heavily on community empowerment and DEI? Or are these efforts merely performative, designed for good PR and tax benefits?

    MLB’s Complicity in Silence

    The league itself isn’t blameless either. Despite Commissioner Rob Manfred initially pledging to uphold MLB’s values on diversity, the organization caved under pressure. References to diversity were removed from its careers page, and the Diversity Pipeline Program—a critical initiative aimed at increasing representation in leadership roles—was scrapped entirely.

    In its press release for Jackie Roosevelt Robinson Day, MLB altered language to downplay mentions of race, racism, or the significance of breaking the color barrier. This sanitized version glosses over the very struggles that defined Robinson’s career and contributions.

    Abdul-Jabbar summed it up best: “Trump wants to get rid of DEI… And I think it’s just a ruse to discriminate.” By failing to resist such agendas, MLB undermines its own claims of celebrating Robinson’s legacy.

    What Fans Deserve

    For fans, corporations like MLB and franchises like the Dodgers often disappoint when profit trumps moral responsibility. But for an organization historically proud of its role in advancing social justice—from Jackie Robinson to Fernando Valenzuela—the Dodgers must choose a side. Either they actively support positive change, or they remain politically neutral. Straddling the fence only perpetuates hypocrisy.

    Fans deserve better. They deserve an organization willing to stand firmly for the values it claims to uphold—not one content with symbolic gestures that mask deeper failures.

  • Dave Roberts Hints at Limited Time for Andy Pages with Dodgers

    Dave Roberts Hints at Limited Time for Andy Pages with Dodgers

    The Los Angeles Dodgers went into the 2025 season with high expectations for homegrown outfielder Andy Pages, but so far he’s been a disappointment. After not making the Opening Day roster last year, he’s been in the LA outfield this season, but not without struggles. Through 17 games, he’s hit .151/.286/.283 with 19 strikeouts and 10 hits, 3 of which were extra base hits. There have been some flashes of brilliance including 2 early home runs, and a nice defensive play, but overall the production hasn’t been enough to keep him in the lineup.

    The National League West is as tough as ever, so the Dodgers can’t afford to have weak links in the order. Manager Dave Roberts recently set a timeline for when they might consider other options if Pages doesn’t get it going.

    Roberts Sets the Clock: 150 Plate Appearations to Turn Things Around

    On April 13, Dave Roberts publicly said that he uses a “150 plate appearance benchmark” to evaluate struggling players. Pages is at 64 right now so he has time to get going—but Roberts being so direct about the timeline is unusual and means he’s getting anxious.

    “It’s rare for Dave to be so specific about a player’s timeline,” one insider said. “But sometimes added pressure can help a young player like Pages turn it on.”

    While his numbers are still bad, Pages has shown flashes on both sides of the ball. On April 12 he made a highlight reel catch in center field robbing the Cubs’ Michael Busch of a two out grand slam. But consistent production is what the Dodgers need and right now Pages isn’t delivering.

    Options If Pages Can’t Deliver

    If Pages can’t turn it around before he reaches 150 plate appearances, the Dodgers have options waiting in the wings. One is Hyeseong Kim who’s tearing it up in Triple-A Oklahoma City. In 16 games, he’s hitting .268/.333/.521 with a .854 OPS and 13 RBIs. He even had a 2 HR game on April 12, the same day Pages made his grand slam saving catch.

    If he’s called up, he could play second base and Tommy Edman could go back to center. Edman played 310.2 error free innings in center for the Cardinals in 2023 and brings defense and experience—something the Dodgers may value if Pages continues to struggle.

    Can Pressure Spark a Turnaround?

    For Pages, the next few weeks are big. He’s shown flashes of brilliance but needs to be consistent at the plate to stay in the lineup. Roberts putting a timeline on it might add pressure, but it could also motivate Pages to get it done. The Dodgers are counting on their young players to contribute in a tight NL West race.

    Will Andy Pages answer the call, or will the Dodgers go to Hyeseong Kim? Only time—and 86 more at bats—will tell.

  • Los Angeles Dodgers 3 Trade Targets for Another World Series Title

    Los Angeles Dodgers 3 Trade Targets for Another World Series Title

    The Dodgers are again World Series favorites. But repeating as champs is no easy task and even the best teams need help to stay ahead. For the Dodgers, a few smart moves before the deadline could be the difference between another title run or an early exit. Here are three trades that would do it.

    Trade Proposal 1: Bring Back a Familiar Face for Left Field

    Dodgers Get: OF Alex Verdugo
    Braves Get: LHP Maddux Bruns (Dodgers #23 prospect)

    Left field has been a disaster for the Dodgers this season, and Michael Conforto has been unable to get it going. Enter Alex Verdugo—a former Dodger who’s been languishing in Triple-A Gwinnett since being traded away years ago.

    Verdugo is a low risk, high reward option for the Dodgers. Worst case, he’s a platoon partner for Conforto. Best case he finds his 2019 form and gives the lineup a big boost. He hit .294 with an OPS+ of 114 in 2019.

    For the Dodgers, it’s a cheap price. They’d send away Bruns, a lower tier prospect who hasn’t cracked their top 30. And since Verdugo is a free agent at the end of the season, there’s no long term commitment. This checks all the boxes: affordable, impactful, and timely.

    Trade Proposal 2: A Blockbuster for Center Field

    Dodgers Get: OF Luis Robert Jr.
    White Sox Get: SS Alex Freeland (Dodgers #5 prospect), RHP River Ryan (Dodgers #10 prospect), RHP Nick Frasso (Dodgers #14 prospect)

    Let’s get to the elephant in the room: the Dodgers’ center field situation. Andy Pages just isn’t a high end outfielder, and the team needs an upgrade if they want to win another ring.

    Enter Luis Robert Jr., one of the most dynamic players in the game. The 27 year old is a game changer offensively and defensively, can turn games with his bat, speed, and glove. Adding him to the roster would instantly upgrade the lineup and defense.

    Of course acquiring a player like Robert Jr. comes at a high price. The Dodgers would have to give up 3 of their top 15 prospects—Freeland, Ryan and Frasso—but that’s what contenders do to win championships. Plus, losing these prospects opens up opportunities for others in the pipeline.

    With Robert Jr’s prime years still ahead of him, this deal addresses immediate needs and sets up the Dodgers for long term success beyond 2025.

    Trade Proposal 3: Bolstering the Bullpen

    Dodgers Get: RHP Ryan Helsley
    Cardinals Get: OF Zyhir Hope (Dodgers #6 prospect), INF Noah Miller (Dodgers #25 prospect)

    Even the best lineups can struggle without a reliable bullpen, and the Dodgers know that better than anyone. With injuries plaguing their relief corps this season, relying on internal improvements alone isn’t enough. Enter Ryan Helsley, the best available reliever on the market.

    Helsley has electric stuff and closer experience, something the Dodgers need as they head into October baseball. Yes, he’s a rental player who will hit free agency after the season, but his presence alone can be the difference in close postseason games.

    To get Helsley, the Dodgers would send two promising prospects—Hope and Miller—to St. Louis. It’s a fair price for a proven commodity who can anchor their bullpen down the stretch. If things go well, the Dodgers might even work out an extension with Helsley before the offseason.

    Is This the Blueprint for Another Championship?

    The Dodgers have a good team, but winning a World Series requires more than just depth; it requires excellence across the board. By addressing left field, center field, and the bullpen with these trades, the Dodgers can have a team that’s unbeatable in October.

    Will this happen? That’s up to the front office. But one thing is for sure, if the Dodgers want to repeat as champions, they’ll need to act fast before the trade deadline.

  • Dodgers’ Sneaky Plan to Land Cardinals’ Defensive Sensation

    Dodgers’ Sneaky Plan to Land Cardinals’ Defensive Sensation

    The Los Angeles Dodgers are stacked, but even the best teams have weaknesses. As the 2025 season unfolds, second base has become a need for the champs. Could St. Louis Cardinals infielder Brendan Donovan be the answer?

    Dodgers’ Second Base Dilemma

    According to Bleacher Report’s Kerry Miller, the Dodgers will start looking into trade options to address their second base situation before the July deadline. They already have one of the best rosters in baseball, but upgrading at second base could give them an extra edge in their pursuit of another World Series.

    “It’s not too early (for the Dodgers) to start thinking about where the inevitable trade-deadline buying will be focused,” Miller wrote. “The lowest hanging fruit is arguably whichever of 2B/CF is easier to upgrade.”

    With several teams likely to target center fielders, second base seems like the more realistic position for the Dodgers to address. Names like Brandon Lowe, Luis Arraez, and Gleyber Torres have been mentioned as possibilities. But there’s another under the radar name that could interest the Dodgers: Brendan Donovan of the St. Louis Cardinals.

    Why Brendan Donovan Makes Sense for the Dodgers?

    Donovan, 28, is on fire early in 2025. He’s leading the Cardinals in batting average (.350) and total hits (22) and has a .350/.385/.517 slash line with 2 HR, 3 2B and 10 RBI. He’s also a defensive wizard, winning a Gold Glove in 2022.

    He’s versatile too. Donovan can play 2B, SS and the outfield – exactly what the Dodgers like in high-IQ players.

    St. Louis’ Dilemma: Extend or Trade?

    For the Cardinals, deciding what to do with Donovan is a tough call. He has 2 more years of arb eligibility and the fans are clamoring for an extension. But if the Cardinals struggle this year, Donovan becomes a trade chip to bolster their farm system.

    As Miller said, asset-rich teams like the Dodgers look for undervalued gems who can help their roster. Donovan is that guy. He’s one of the most comfortable hitters in the Cardinals’ lineup and his value is peaking as trade talks heat up.

    Will Donovan’s Numbers Hold Up?

    Donovan won’t hit .350 all year, but his overall production will be solid. Even if his numbers dip a bit, his consistent contact and defense make him a great option for contenders.

    The Dodgers’ front office is methodical in their approach to trades, and Donovan checks all the boxes. He wasn’t on their radar before, but his hot start has definitely got their attention.

  • Roki Sasaki Dominates with Sharpened Command in Longest Start

    Roki Sasaki Dominates with Sharpened Command in Longest Start

    Before Saturday’s game against the Chicago Cubs, manager Dave Roberts told rookie Roki Sasaki to focus on command and rhythm. Drawing from Yoshinobu Yamamoto’s great performance the night before, Roberts had a simple plan: get ahead in the count, mix in breaking balls with fastballs, and command the zone.

    “Get ahead. Mix in both of your breaking balls,” Roberts said. “Command the fastball and fill it up. I think Yoshi had good rhythm last night and if Roki can follow that, we’ll be good.”

    Sasaki had some early struggles that come with being a young pitcher but he went the deepest he’s ever gone in the majors, pitching into the 5th inning for the first time. He threw 50 strikes on 81 pitches—both career highs—and gave up 1 run on 4 hits with 2 walks and 3 strikeouts in 5 innings.

    “For me, that was the bright spot of the night,” Roberts said after the Dodgers got pounded 16-0. “And probably the most important part of the game was for him to get better, go deeper, throw strikes, get strikeouts, soft contact. He looked really good tonight.”

    A Rocky Start Turns Into Progress

    Sasaki didn’t have the best of starts. Despite getting the side out in the first inning, he found himself behind in the count to every batter. He was 3-0 to Ian Happ, 2-0 to Kyle Tucker and 1-0 to Seiya Suzuki. He escaped unscathed thanks to two groundouts and a flyout but it was clear he was pressing early.

    Things got tougher in the second when Michael Busch hit a leadoff homer – the first extra base hit Sasaki has given up this season. But instead of letting that moment get to him, Sasaki settled in. He retired the next three batters in order and got out of a bases loaded, one out jam in the third.

    “Didn’t feel comfortable in the first inning,” Sasaki said through interpreter Will Ireton. “But I felt like I found my rhythm after that first inning. Overall, better command. That was something I was able to carry over from my last outing.”

    The Splitter Shows Promise

    One of the things Roberts wanted Sasaki to work on was his offspeed stuff, especially his splitter. On Saturday, the splitter was 25% of his pitches, 7 swings and misses, 4 whiffs, 50% success rate.

    “I thought Roki was good. It’s a tough lineup,” said catcher Austin Barnes, who has caught Sasaki’s last two starts. “Those middle hitters, Busch is a tough at-bat. I thought he was good. He mixed his stuff. I thought it was a quality start. Kept us in the game.”

    Sasaki agreed that mixing pitches was key to his development. “It puts me in a little tough spot when I don’t throw a lot of different pitches. So today I had to lean on the slider at the end of the game to get something over the plate besides my fastball. But when my fastball is good, I feel like guys will swing a little more on my split.”

    Bullpen Meltdown Overshadows Sasaki’s Effort

    Unfortunately for the Dodgers, the game got away from them once Sasaki left. Reliever Ben Casparius, who came in with a 0.00 ERA, gave up 6 runs on 7 hits in 1 2/3 innings. Luis García followed with a terrible 1/3 of an inning, giving up 4 runs on 3 hits as the Cubs poured it on and won 16-0.

    While the final score was ugly, Sasaki’s outing was progress for a young pitcher still figuring things out in the bigs. Saturday was a step forward.

    “It’s one of those games you throw away once you’re out of it and move on,” Roberts said. “Sasaki is ready to build off this for his next start.”

    Barnes on Sasaki’s Future

    Austin Barnes was confident in Sasaki’s future, saying he’ll only get better. “He’s 23, in the big leagues, four starts,” Barnes said. “Everybody knew he was going to get better and better. He’s got a clear path to what he wants to do and I think he’ll be fine.”